Well posted Barney
Unfortunately it took me 3 weeks to spot the post but my weak excuse being that I was away for two of them
I voted for Laura Marling as was recommended by a guy on the forum, Dave C, but I don't think he comes here any more
(think he might have left after he was rumbled as a MAFIAA spy
) but it turned out to be an excellent recommendation never the less.
Like Vik I am amazed that Adele was nominated and that Duffy wasn't. I haven't got anything against Adele I just think Duffy's album is so much better.
If I wasn't voting for Laura Marling I would have gone for Rachel Unthank and The Winterset - I never thought I would be attracted to an album sung, in part, in Geordie dialect but it is a very magical album - if there's anyone who likes folky stuff and hasn't listened to it then I strongly recommend checking it out.
My third choice would be Robert Plant & Alison Kraus, a great collaboration and one that made me rethink some of my perceptions of 'Country'.
I've also enjoyed the others but in no way would I describe them as being 'stand out' albums but then again maybe my musical tastes are changing.
Burial - Untrue is an interesting one and given the right mood is a worthwhile listen. It's hardly uplifting but that's me clearly missing the point. It's clear strength is that it performed by an artist who is defining their own musical direction so that, alone, should be applauded. I hear it's the album hottest tipped to win so time will tell.